A Born Author

The second chapter flashes forward to many years after the end of the war, when Lieutenant Cross visits O'Brien. The two chat about past times, feeling sorrow and guilt. After discussing Jimmy Cross's relationship (or not relationship --- whatever it is) with Martha, it seems that O'Brien has an epiphany. Talking about the numerous stories of the war inspires O'Brien as a writer. "..I told him that I'd like to write a story about some of this." I wonder if this part of the story is true..I have yet to figure out if the whole novel is nonfiction, or if only bits and pieces are actual happenings. Is Jimmy Cross and his "lover" Martha a main inspiration for Tim O'Brien's work? Maybe a hint will come later in the novel.